Metropolitan IP aggregation network design tool

Abstract

In a tool for use by network planners in designing metropolitan IP aggregation networks, several optimization methods are integrated into a tool. A k-means algorithm is used to choose access packet switch locations. A dual-k-means algorithm is used to choose the backbone switch locations. Each access packet switch is dual homed to two backbone packet switches using two diverse paths. The diverse path configuration is found using a maxflow-mincost algorithm on a modified fiber map topology. The link topology connecting the backbone packet switches to each other is designed using a heuristic that creates a skeleton network topology and then adds express links one by one, testing each link to assure reduced overall network cost. The resulting network topology is then improved upon by local search.

Description

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE[0001]The present disclosure relates generally to the design of communications networks, and more particularly, to tools for designing an aggregation network including both network access packet switches and network backbone packet switches.BACKGROUND[0002]New IP aggregation (“IPAG”) networks use a layered architecture, including OSI Layer-2 (L2) aggregation or access packet switches, connected by physically diverse fiber paths to a “cluster” of IPAG core network backbone packet switches. Layer-2 is a protocol layer in the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) protocol stack and includes protocols such as Ethernet VLAN (Virtual Local Area (LAN) Network) and Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS). The term “IP aggregation” represents the idea that Ethernet frames, including IP packets, are collected on the edge of the IPAG network and then, for network efficiency and compatibility with typical enterprise LANs, encapsulated into L2 protocol data units and then routed...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The tool described in this patent helps planners to efficiently design networks using access packet switches and core backbone switches. It selects the most cost-effective location for switches based on network facility locations and calculates the fiber cost of diverse paths. It also allows for easy design changes and sensitivity analysis studies. The tool is faster and more flexible than previous methods, making the design process more efficient and flexible. The technical effects of this tool include reducing fiber costs, using lower-cost Ethernet optics, and improving network design flexibility.

Problems solved by technology

The networks present a large and complex design problem.

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